The outcomes for this study are patient satisfaction and self-efficacy. Both outcomes will be measured at baseline and then after the intervention at 18 months. [ Time Frame: 18 months ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]

This study seeks to evaluate and document the processes of outreach consultation through joint-clinics via teleconferencing as an intervention for system improvement in care delivery and management of diabetes at CBOCs.

Detailed Description

Background:

Diabetes is a national problem that has reached epidemic proportions, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes has particular importance for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) because the prevalence among VA patients -- one in six, or 16 percent -- is substantially higher than in the general population.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to evaluate and document the processes of outreach consultation through the use of joint-clinics via teleconferencing as an intervention for system improvement in care delivery and management of diabetes at CBOCs. The intervention consisted of a teleconferenced joint-clinic consultation session involving the patient, Diabetes Specialist Team, the PCP and other relevant care team members. The impact of the 16-month intervention was assessed based on patients who were involved in the telemedicine clinic and those who were referred to a specialist to be seen on-site at the Cleveland VAMC.

Methods:

Study settings include the CBOCs affiliated with the Cleveland VAMC and involve primary care referrals to see diabetes specialists at the Cleveland VAMC. Inclusion criteria patients(N=282) included: (i) current prescription of insulin or an oral hypoglycemic agent; (ii) A1c > 7.0%; or (iii) fasting glucose levels> 130 mg/dl; and (iv) referred to see a consultant (beginning three months prior to the active intervention phase and continuing through enrollment for the last month of the active intervention phase). Patients with either Type l or Type II diabetes will be included. Patients referred will be contacted and asked to participate.

Status:

Additional analyses are being conducted on health care costs and on impact beyond the patients directly involved in the study. Manuscripts are being prepared.